12 Questions to Avoid If You Feel Depressed

Feeling depressed?
Let’s try this tool:
→    Questions Reframing

Why?
Because our depression can’t disappear if we ask ourselves the wrong questions, right?
So, in the next 90 days, let’s follow these 5 steps.

1.    Every time you feel depressed, pay attention to your “internal questions”.
What are these “internal questions”?
Well, they are the questions you ask yourself.

2.    Once you become aware of your question, do this:
→    Take your journal
→    Write down the question
For example you might ask yourself:
→    “Why can’t I just snap out of it?”
This is a “toxic question”.

3.    After writing the “toxic question”, write the healthy alternative below.
We’re gonna call them “healthy questions”.
Now your question is:
→    “How can I know the right healthy questions to use?”

Well, take a cue from these 12 toxic/healthy questions:
✕     What’s wrong with me?
✓     What aspects of my life can I work on to improve my wellbeing?

✕     Is this ever going to end?
✓     What steps can I take to work towards recovery and a brighter future?

✕     Why am I always like this?
✓     What positive changes can I make to break this pattern?

✕     Why can’t I just be normal?
✓     What makes me unique, and how can I embrace my individuality positively?

✕     Am I just seeking attention?
✓     How can I communicate my feelings and needs effectively to those around me?

✕     Will I ever feel normal again?
✓     What strategies can I employ to regain a sense of balance and wellbeing?


✕     Am I just a burden to others?
✓     How can I communicate with loved ones about my needs and seek their support?

✕     Why can’t I just snap out of it?
✓     What steps can I take to manage my emotions and seek support?

✕     What’s the point of even trying?
✓     What micro-goals can I set for myself to work towards a more positive future?

✕     Why can’t I be happy like others?
✓     What actions can I take to cultivate my own happiness and fulfillment?

✕     Shouldn’t I be stronger than this?
✓     How can I build resilience while acknowledging my current challenges?

✕     Is it my fault that I feel this way?
✓     How can I show myself kindness and understanding during difficult times?

Just write the healthy question below the toxic one.

4.    Draw a line through the toxic question.
Just a line — don’t cancel it.
So in the future you can see your “old mindset.”

5.    Now:
→    Reflect on the healthy question, and use it in the future instead of the toxic one.
→    Act based on the new healthy question.

This is how you can:
→    cultivate a growth mindset,
→    reduce depression,
→    and feel better.

As we know, our internal questions mirror our mindset.